Nino Tempo

Musician
Singer
Actor

About Nino Tempo

Nino Tempo: A Musical Prodigy from Niagara Falls

On January 6, 1935, the streets of Niagara Falls, New York, became home to a future musical legend, born Antonino LoTempio — better known to the world as Nino Tempo. With a career spanning decades, Tempo left an indelible mark as a musician, singer, and actor. His extraordinary talent took him from performing as a child prodigy to becoming a Grammy-winning artist alongside his sister, April Stevens, and beyond.

Early Life and Musical Beginnings

From a young age, it was clear that Antonino, affectionately called Nino, was destined for the stage. By the age of four, he was already dazzling audiences at talent shows. A natural musician, he mastered the clarinet and tenor saxophone as a boy. His talent was nothing short of extraordinary—at just seven years old, he performed on television with swing icon Benny Goodman, wowing viewers with his precocious ability.

When his family moved to California, Tempo’s blossoming career followed. On the Horace Heidt radio show, he performed Goodman’s clarinet solos and further honed his skills as a live performer. His early success laid the foundation for an incredible career in the years to come.

The Rise of “Deep Purple”

Nino Tempo is best known for his collaborations with his elder sister, April Stevens. Together, they became a dynamic brother-and-sister duo that captured the hearts of audiences in the 1960s. Their style combined pop, rock, and big band influences—producing timeless hits that appealed across generations.

The duo’s most iconic song was their 1963 hit “Deep Purple,” a soulful and melodic tune that stood out for April’s spoken-word interlude midway through the track, thoughtfully highlighting Nino’s vocals. The song soared to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and even earned the duo a Grammy Award for Best Rock & Roll Recording in 1964. Selling over a million copies, “Deep Purple” became a hallmark of their shared musical legacy.

While many duos would fade after one major hit, Nino and April continued to release fan-favorite tracks such as “Whispering” and “Stardust,” showcasing their versatility and timeless appeal.

Behind the Scenes with the Wrecking Crew

Beyond his commercial success as a performer, Tempo was also a key figure behind the scenes of the music industry. He became a member of the legendary Wrecking Crew, a group of elite Los Angeles-based session musicians who contributed to countless iconic records of the 1960s and 70s.

Tempo’s skill on the saxophone made him a sought-after contributor to an array of projects, working with industry giants like Bobby Darin and Maynard Ferguson. His collaboration with the Wrecking Crew extended his reach to countless genres, including jazz, pop, and rock.

Expanding His Talents

Nino Tempo’s creativity wasn’t confined to music. He dabbled in acting, appearing in films like The Red Pony and The Glenn Miller Story. His onscreen presence added another facet to his artistic resume, blending his love for music and performance into one.

Later in his career, Nino lent his voice to animated projects, including several beloved Garfield TV specials during the 1980s. His unmistakable baritone brought life and humor to these productions, reiterating his ability to engage audiences in new and playful ways.

A Legacy of Talent and Versatility

Nino Tempo’s story is one of relentless creativity and adaptability. From his earliest days as a child prodigy to winning Grammy Awards and playing saxophone for iconic records, his career exemplifies a passion for the arts in all forms.

His partnership with his sister April Stevens remains a cherished chapter of pop music history, proving that family bonds, combined with talent, can create something unforgettable. Even today, his contributions to music and film are celebrated by fans of classic pop culture and those who value the artistry of the mid-20th century.

Having started life in Niagara Falls, New York, Nino Tempo carried the spirit of his hometown with him wherever he went. His enduring impact reminds us all of the power of music to transcend time, and the beauty of never staying confined to one path when creativity calls.